7 Ways to Get Rid of Blackheads

Here's how to nix these bad boys for good.

By
Carly Cardellino

Oct 06, 2016

Something you already know: Blackheads are super annoying and they're definitely not something you want your partner to see when they're thisclose to your face. So, Cosmopolitan.com asked Dr. Zoe Draelos, a dermatologist in Durham, North Carolina, for easy ways to nix these bad boys.

1
of
7

2
of
7

3
of
7

4
of
7

5
of
7

6
of
7

7
of
7

1 of 7

The 411 on Blackheads

Half of the battle of banishing blackheads is knowing what they are and what's causing them.

"A blackhead is a wax plug in a pore made up of dead skin cells, debris, and bacteria," says Dr. Draelos. "What causes them is a blockage in the pore that prevents the gland from secreting and shedding what it needs to (oil, dead skin cells etc.). Then, as the wax plug slowly gets pushed toward the skin's surface, it comes in contact with the air, which oxidizes it and turns black."

2 of 7

Use the Right Cleanser

"Benzoyl peroxide, while it works better and faster, can end up being too irritating if you have sensitive or dry skin," explains Dr. Draelos. "So, use a wash with salicylic acid instead since it's not as harsh."

"And while you may not see results as quickly, it is effective — and it also helps prevent new blackheads from forming by keeping your pores clear."

"The wax plug that's stuck inside of your pore is very sticky, so you have to unstick it first in order for it to work its way out," says Draelos.

One way to get rid of stubborn blackheads is to use a wipe (every other night) that contains malic, glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids. These ingredients clear away any dead skin cells that block the pores and help break down the wax plugs, loosening them so they can break free from your pores.

If you're still not seeing progress after using your new at-home regimen for a month and a half, make an appointment with your dermatologist. He or she may have to de-plug your blackheads using special tools.

They may also prescribe you a vitamin A creams like Retin A or Differen gel to tackle and prevent blackheads from coming back. Prescription-strength formulas like these ones make the skin that lines your pores exfoliate better, so the contents don't get stuck and result in a clogged pore.